John Calverley is an active freelance violinist, composer, improviser, and session musician. As music director for Vinok Worldance he performs diverse styles of traditional music from various cultures. He studied violin at the U of A under Norman Nelson where he received his BMus. In addition to his classical training he has also competed nationally for Canadian old time fiddling and explores improvisational styles as the founder of his gypsy-jazz group, the Felt Hat String Band. He is a mainstay at the Deep Freeze and Kaleido festivals in Edmonton as well as the St. Albert and Salisbury (Sherwood Park) Farmers’ markets. Some highlights include: Recording for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics opening ceremonies ‘Fiddle Nation’ medley composed by Calvin Vollrath, the Canada Day Millennium Celebration on Parliament Hill with Vinok Worldance, Alberta Spirit: Party of the Century Centennial Celebrations, as well as international festivals in Brazil and Taiwan. John performs with Alfie Zappacosta, Crystal Plamondon, the Strathcona String Quartet, Opera Nuova, Vinok Worldance, and many other chamber music, pop, rock and folk acts.